Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question for the committee about this project?
Email Us at info@getonboardmuskoka.com
Why isn't the Fire Department buying the boat?
The Fire Department's budget is the responsibility of the Township of Lake of Bays. Funds have already been allocated through to the 2028 budget. We can’t wait!
What is a Fire/Rescue Boat?
It is a specialized firefighting vehicle, just as a Pumper, Ladder or Rescue vehicle, which transports Fire Fighters and equipment to an emergency scene. This vehicle's specialty is its ability to quickly and efficiently access areas and situations which presently challenge the resourcefulness of our volunteers.
What kind of boat are we fund-raising for?
A committee of Volunteer Fire Fighters is presently exploring the many different options available. A recent trip to The Muskoka Lakes by committee members brought back valuable information regarding different options. Many photos were taken and are available for viewing on our photos page.
What we do know, is that it will be a 26' - 28' "Stanley type" boat, custom designed to meet the needs of our Lake of Bays Volunteer Fire Fighters. Their safety and the efficient storage of the latest high-tech fire and water rescue equipment will be a major factor in its design.
What about the Dorset boat?
The Dorset Fire Fighter Association raised funds to purchase their 22' Stanley boat in approx. 1999. An ongoing fundraising campaign maintains the boat and recently installed a new 140 HP 4-stroke engine. This boat is stored on a trailer and responds to the many lakes in their area. In the event of an emergency, the boat is trailered to the closest water access point, where it is launched. Firefighters and equipment are then loaded and transported to the scene. We congratulate the Dorset Volunteer Firefighters for their vision in recognizing the need for a boat, and in their fund-raising efforts which purchased, and now maintain, this equipment. We also thank them for their offer to share this boat with Lake of Bays. Our Committee believes that Lake of Bays, with it's 350 miles of shore and approx. 20 islands, needs it's own a Fire/Rescue boat, permanently equipped, in the water, ready to respond. Did you know:Our neighbours in Muskoka Lakes have 5 fire/rescue boats to respond to their many miles of shoreline and islands.
Why does the boat cost so much?
Our fund-raising goal of $225,000.00 will buy a lot more than a boat!
Expense Breakdown
| Phase 1 - $125,000 | Boat | $75,000 |
| Engines (2) | $50,000 | |
| Phase 2 - $45,000 | Pumps | $20,000 |
| Generator | $15,000 | |
| Hoses & Nozzles | $5,000 | |
| Lighting/Radios | $5,000 | |
| Phase 3 - $55,000 | Marine Sub-Station (dock and boathouse) | $50,000 |
| Maintenance (1-2 years) | $5,000 | |
| Total | $225,000 | |
Why do we need a Fire/Rescue boat?
A Fire/Rescue boat is invaluable for several reasons:
- It will provide timely access to hard to reach properties on Lake of Bays. Many properties and cottages/homes are serviced by narrow lanes (or no road) which makes access by large fire trucks difficult or impossible.
- It will be the "fire hydrant” on the lake - allowing the firefighters to provide a continual source of water to the scene. Presently, firefighters drive a pumper truck back and forth from a water access point to the scene.
- It will respond to boating accidents - Equipment to handle boat explosions, accidents resulting from collisions, swimming, skiing, tubing or wake-boarding, will be permanently stored on board to save valuable time.
In an emergency - "minutes matter!”
Is the Fire/Rescue boat for Bigwin Island?
The boat will service Bigwin Island, as well as approximately 20 other islands on Lake of Bays, and the 350 miles of shoreline. It will provide service to all of Lake of Bays.
Where will it be kept?
The decision on the Fireboat's location is currently under discussion. The decision will be made by a committee representing the Fire Department, The Township of Lake of Bays and The Fireboat Fundraising Committee.
A central location to best serve the entire lake, the proximity of a nearby Fire Station for personnel to man the boat, and the availability of appropriate property are among the factors that will be considered.
How will this boat be paid for in the future?
As with other Fire fighting vehicles, the Fire/Rescue Boat will be part of the The Township of Lake of Bays Fire Equipment inventory. The Muskoka Lakes Fire Chief informs us that the boat's maintenance cost is comparable to maintenance of other firefighting vehicles. The Lake of Bays Council has agreed to the inclusion of this maintenance to the Fire Department's annual operating budget.